Global Scans · Design · Weekly Summary

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WHAT'S NEXT?: Design thinking will increasingly play a key role in improving systems and customer experiences. Companies will re-learn their approach to innovation and embrace human-centred design principles. Designers will begin to apply knowledge of human interaction, specifically in the area of how we earn trust and respect, to AI systems.

• [New] Improvements in service, content design or space layout may influence client decisions more heavily in 2026. Conference News
• [New] Because of the design of open wireless earbuds, no pair will ever be ideal in high-volume situations where you would want a more traditional pair of wireless earbuds with tips and active noise cancelation (ANC). Gizmodo
• [New] Livingetc and other major architecture publications are listing biophilic design as one of the dominant architecture trends for 2026, positioned alongside tech minimalism and retro-futurism. Biophilic Flair
• [New] Realtor.com and multiple real estate databases are now listing biophilic design as one of the top five home features projected for 2026. Biophilic Flair
• [New] As Gartner reports, by 2026, generative AI will significantly alter 70% of the design and development effort for new web applications and mobile apps, creating unprecedented attack surfaces. Futurist Speaker on AI Leadership, Future of Work, Futu
• [New] Autodesk will provide access to its industry-grade design software and co-develop training content that emphasises hands-on learning, project-based modules, and exposure to emerging technologies such as digital prototyping, CAD, and AI-enhanced design systems. Guidely
• [New] Increasing investment in domestic manufacturing and AI-powered design optimization will shape the competitive edge of American suppliers in the global turbocharging landscape. EIN Presswire
• [New] By 2025, Gartner added post-quantum authentication as a standalone category in the Hype Cycle for Digital Identity, warning by 2029, advances in quantum computing will weaken and break the standard asymmetric cryptography on which many identity verification methods rely. Medium
• [New] Identity & Third-Party Risk are 2025's Blast Radius: Verizon's 2025 DBIR confirms that stolen credentials are the primary vector in web application breaches, while third-party involvement has surged, implicated in approximately 30% of all breaches. CyberSierra
• [New] The biggest cybersecurity threat in 2025 is identity-centric intrusions, where stolen credentials are used to breach corporate networks. CyberSierra
• [New] Identity verification will make it harder to set up companies or appoint directors using fake or stolen identities, and to expose disqualified directors, and link directorships to one person. UKAuthority
• [New] Governments in the U.S., EU, Japan, and India have collectively invested $2.5 billion in digital identity infrastructure, leveraging decentralized identifiers and verifiable credentials to reduce risks associated with centralized data storage. Ainvest
• [New] Manufacturing transforms from Industry 4.0 fascination to practical human-machine collaboration in 2026, with AI agents autonomously managing factory operations while generative design moves from prototype to production. Forbes
• [New] GDRFA Dubai (General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai) has announced that it will be unveiling a range of innovative digital services aimed at enhancing the visitor experience, revolutionizing travel, and further establishing Dubai as a leader in global connectivity. Travel And Tour World
• [New] There is enough evidence available to predict increased adoption of DLT/Blockchain digital identity, including schemes developed around Self-Sovereign Identity principles. Goode Intelligence
• [New] Samsung is expected to retain its signature design language on the Galaxy S26 series, with the rear cameras positioned in a vertical array and a hole-punch display to house the selfie shooter. CNet
• [New] Central Pattana markets the project as a long-term urban asset that will help define northern Bangkok's future identity. Focus on Travel News - ftnnews.com
• [New] Kookaburra will be another proof-of-concept processor, expected in 2026, that IBM representatives say will be the first modular-designed QPU designed to store and process encoded information - combining logic operations with memory. Live Science
• [New] Ultimately, a well-designed legal framework will enable countries to harness the benefits of digital trade, promote innovation, and improve the lives of citizens worldwide. TheNigeriaLawyer
• [New] A well-designed legal framework will enable Nigeria to harness the benefits of digital transformation, while minimizing its risks and challenges. TheNigeriaLawyer

Last updated: 24 November 2025